By: Kwame Bediako
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has emphasized that qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents an opportunity to restore national pride following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
For the first time in over two decades, Ghana did not secure a place in Africa’s premier tournament, as the team failed to win a single match in the qualifiers.
This setback has deeply disappointed the nation and the team, but the Black Stars remain focused on the next big goal. Ghana is now close to booking its ticket for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Their recent 5-0 win over the Central African Republic in the Matchday 9 game on Wednesday boosted their chances considerably.
Speaking to 3Sports after the match at Stade d’Honneur de Meknès in Morocco, Ayew admitted the pain caused by missing AFCON, calling it a “huge disaster and disappointment.”
He reflected on past struggles, including the 2022 World Cup, and explained, “We knew this World Cup was our only chance to redeem ourselves, so everyone gave everything. I’ve been with the national team for a long time, it’s a part of me, and I knew I had to step up.”
The goals in the 5-0 victory came from Mohammed Salisu, who opened the scoring in the first half, followed by Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew himself, and Kamaldeen Sulemana.
This decisive win pushed Ghana to the top of Group I with 22 points, putting them in a strong position ahead of their final qualifier.
The Black Stars will conclude their World Cup qualification campaign against Comoros on Sunday, October 12, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT, with Ghana aiming to secure their place at the Mundial and begin the path of redemption for the team and its supporters.
